Bike Reviews

Arm warmers generally fall into one of two categories: solid, neutral colors that will match nearly any cycling kit, or patterned warmers designed to match a specific jersey (or stand out when worn alone). Then there are Wildskins, which probably won’t match any jersey—and that’s a beautiful thing. Because while neon-orange arm warmers, for example, may scream “dork!”, add, say, some shiny, magenta paisley to that day-glo, and you’re suddenly vaulted into a rarefied realm of fashion that only a select few could ever hope to achieve. That’s what I tell myself, anyway. If the staid red/black/white color scheme that’s currently en vogue is working just fine for you, or if you shudder at words like “bedazzled” or “swirl,” then don’t bother checking out the more than 15 limited-edition patterns (not a solid color in sight) available. But you’ll be missing out on some of the most functional warmer sets out there—complete with thumb holes and a key pocket. There’s no gripper elastic to hold them in place, but they’re snug enough that I didn’t experience much slippage.—Emily Furia